Life and Work with Emily Dong

Today we’d like to introduce you to Emily Dong.

Emily, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I started my beauty and fashion blog, Emsies, around 4 years ago because I am passionate about makeup as well as sharing fashion trends. Most recently, due to how often I’ve been traveling, I decided to change Emsies to be a style and travel blog so that, I can showcase travel guides in addition to beauty and fashion posts! I have really enjoyed growing my page and collaborating with other bloggers as well as brands that I admire.

Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has not been an entirely smooth road as there have definitely been challenges along the way including changing blog platforms, Instagram’s changing algorithm, etc. My best pieces of advice for women starting their journey are to think about: 1) what about other blogs inspire you and see if there’s a way to incorporate that to your own blog; 2) either work with a graphic designer or do a lot of research in advance about what the different blog platforms can offer you (WordPress, blogger, etc.); and 3) make sure you’re always putting out focused (a.k.a. fitting your themes) and quality content.

Please tell us about Emsies.
I have two missions with my blog: 1) to educate my readers on the latest trends and products in beauty and fashion; and 2) is to inspire my readers to embrace who they are, be confident and be eager to explore. I specialize in blog posts where I review beauty products, create fashionable outfits and put together travel guides. I am most proud of the moments that my followers/friends tell me that, they love my posts and that it inspires them to branch out and pursue some of their interests. I am also proud of the times someone tells me that, I introduced them to a new product or trend that they love! I think the variety of my photos sets me apart from others; for example, one day I’m taking fashion pictures in an Atlanta tea parlor, the next day, it’s an outfit post in Philadelphia or another day, I’m showing a beauty product review photo that was taken in my apartment. I believe the variety of my focused posts keeps people engaged.

Who have you been inspired by?
I have been fortunate enough in my career to have had incredible female managers (blogging isn’t my full time gig). They all set such a strong example for me about speaking up, leading people effectively, making my interests a priority and reacting to unexpected situations. They were all so professional and inspiring and I believe, they’re paving the way for female leaders (especially in the technical world).

In terms of female fashion bloggers that have inspired me though, two comes to my mind: 1) Julia Engel of @galmeetsglam and 2) Jessi Afshin of @jessi_afshin. I admire Julia so much because she seems to be somewhat of a workaholic like me but she is constantly thinking of ways to improve her brand. She is so creative in the way she engages with her readers and I really feel like I know her. The quality of her photos and site is incredible and really sets the bar high for all other bloggers. Jessi constantly produces on-brand, quality posts but this year especially she has shown how powerful being vulnerable with people can be. She reminds me that, it’s important to show that there’s a person behind the photos and to put yourself out there because you never know who could also be looking for someone to relate to.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.emsies.com
• Email: emily.dong3@gmail.com
• Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/emsies_emily
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EmsiesEmily/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/emsies_emily
• Other: https://www.pinterest.com/Emsies_Emily/

Image Credit:
Morgan Hayes – morganhayesphotography.net, Taylor Brodeur – www.tzbphotos.com, Hannah Turner – www.instagram.com/hcturn, Nick Avloshenko – www.navloshenko.com, Angelise Danyelle – www.instagram.com/thedanyelleagency

Getting in touch: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.